Cabernet Franc vs Carignan/Cariñena

Cabernet Franc

Red grape

Cabernet Franc — red grape from Loire Valley and Bordeaux. Produces herbaceous, elegant wines with red berry, violet, and pencil shaving aromas.

Carignan/Cariñena

Red grape

Carignan/Cariñena — major Mediterranean red grape of Spanish origin. Produces robust wines with dark fruit, spice, and firm tannins; key in Languedoc.